Sharing traditions

Weida Shi, an international student from China, joins the St. Onge family in Dartmouth for Christmas dinner. From left: Chris Rafuse, Michelle St. Onge, Doreen St. Onge, Frasier McCreedy, Marc St. Onge and Weida Shi.

Do you have room at your holiday table for another place setting or two?

International Student and Exchange Services (ISES) invites Dalhousie staff and faculty to host an international student over the holidays and throughout the new year for the occasional meal or sporting event, perhaps something as simple as a cup of coffee and conversation.

The idea is to foster friendship and cultural exchange.

"It provides a social outlet for these students who are far from home and helps them adjust to life in Halifax," says Teresa Inacio, international student advisor with ISES. "It’s really a chance for them to experience that culture first hand, as opposed to just seeing it on television."

Weida Shi, a third-year food science student, says he signed up for the International Student Friendship Program during his first year in Canada and is glad he did. This Christmas, he is returning for the third time to enjoy dinner with the St. Onge family in Dartmouth. Now retired, Doreen St. Onge worked for many years in the Communications and Marketing Office.

"Doreen and her family are very friendly. They are really warm people," says Mr. Shi. "I very much appreciate this opportunity that the Dal ISES office gave to me. It is a very good way to let the international student, such as me, adapt to a new environment and make some good friends."

Doreen St. Onge says she's delighted to have Mr. Shi at her table. During the school year, when he's busy with his studies, they keep in touch on Facebook.

"It is absolutely no hassle at all, and, as far as I'm concerned, the more the merrier," she says. "He's a lovely young man and he's here all by himself. Besides, we have so much food at Christmas that it's nice to be able to share."

The program isn't limited to the holiday season. "Any social or cultural event can be a good chance to get together and learn from each other," adds Ms. Inacio.

ISES is encouraging Dalhousie faculty and staff to volunteer for the International Student Friendship Program by contacting ISES at 494-1566 or by e-mailing stafises@dal.ca. If you’re an international student who’s interested in learning more, you’re also welcome to get in touch.